One of Europe’s largest and most important ceramic events is set to bring together more than 200 world-class ceramic artists to showcase their work, this August.

Art in Clay Hatfield, taking place from Friday 18th – Sunday 20th August 2017, will display some of the finest ceramics currently being made by individual makers in the UK and Europe.

The festival held in the gardens of the Jacobean Hatfield House, near St Albans, is now in its 23rd year and continues its highly successful formula of individual makers’ stands, workshops and demonstrations held in a series of marquees.

The makers range from young imaginative students and relative newcomers to leading National and International makers. Some of the best ideas for ceramics in interior and garden design will be on display for visitors to admire and buy.

Major names include Svend Bayer who will be selling his personal collection of early pots at the show, Nic Collins, Peter Hayes, Ian Gregory, Eddie Curtis and Tony Laverick (pictured). While newcomers to watch for potential investment pieces include Babs Belshaw, Charlie Collier, Oliver Fenwick, Erica Fransson, Katie Netley and Ania Perkowska.

During the weekend there will be a full programme of:

  • Ceramic talks and demonstrations for those that have an interest in furthering their ceramic knowledge and expertise
  • A Clay Creation Zone to fire both children and adults’ imagination as they can choose to throw a pot on a potter’s wheel or make a creation by hand while under the guidance of an experienced potter
  • Visitors can also have a go at the clay challenge inspired by the Great Pottery Throw Down – and some of the BBC hit series’ contestants will be on hand to help too
  • Exhibitor awards including The Valentine Clays Peers Award which is voted for each year by the exhibitors for the best contribution to the show. The winner receives a free stand the following year and a piece of work made by the previous year’s winner.

Hannah Ault, Show Director, commented: “Art in Clay is a great day out for both serious ceramics collectors and non-specialists. Visitors can browse a huge number of stands making it a great way to introduce people to the wonderful world of contemporary ceramics. There is such a variety on show that there is something for everyone.

“For those that wish to learn more about the pieces there are plenty of opportunities to talk to the individual makers about their work. It’s an enjoyable and great way of learning about ceramics at first hand and for those who are interested in discovering more there are a series of maker demonstrations and technical talks, as well as the Clay Creation Zone too.”

Art in Clay opens its doors on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th August from 10 am to 5.30pm, and on Sunday 20th from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission prices are Adult £10, Concession £9.50, Two-Day Ticket £17.50, Three-Day Ticket £25. Child aged 15 and under are FREE.

For further information on Art in Clay or to book tickets please visit www.artinclay.co.uk